Discover the Exciting Changes at the 2026 Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo

What to Expect at the 2026 Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo

The much-anticipated 2026 Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo is now underway and will run until February 7. As Fort Worth's oldest and largest public event, this year promises a whirlwind of excitement, riding high on tradition and modern improvements that put a fresh spin on the beloved Western festival.

Celebrating Tradition and Community

For 129 years, the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (FWSSR) has embodied the spirit of Western heritage and agriculture. With expectations of drawing over 1.2 million visitors, the event combines competition, camaraderie, and community pride in a celebration that continues to evolve.

FWSSR President and General Manager, Matt Carter, emphasizes the event’s significance: "It’s that blend of tradition and community that keeps the event thriving after more than a century.” This year, attendees can look forward to innovative features that usher in new crowds while nodding to its storied past.

Renovations: A Fresh Look at Will Rogers Coliseum

This year's show highlights substantial renovations within the historic Will Rogers Coliseum, which celebrates its 90th birthday. Aiming to enhance the visitor experience while preserving the venue’s iconic character, the $50 million upgrade is a testament to the continued relevance of the Stock Show in Fort Worth. According to Carter, "This building is really the Fenway Park of the Western sports industry." The modernization plan allows for a revamped concourse that will host several significant events, including the new College Rodeo Finals.

New Rodeos on the Horizon

The FWSSR lineup this year includes exciting new competitions designed to spotlight emerging talent in rodeo sports. The Pro Rodeo Rookie Rally on January 22 will feature top rookie athletes from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association competing for a $100,000 purse. In addition, the College Rodeo Finals on February 4 will mark a turning point for collegiate competitions, showcasing teams from various esteemed Texas colleges.

Besides these new rides, attendees can still enjoy enduring favorites such as the Best of the West Ranch Rodeo, the Best of Mexico Celebration, and the Cowboys of Color Rodeo, each aimed at celebrating the diverse communities foundational to Fort Worth's Western culture.

Bringing the Community Together

Behind the scenes of the Stock Show, a sturdy volunteer force, with many members deeply connected to the program for decades, thrives. Mike Micallef, a long-time volunteer, describes the sense of unity the event fosters, saying, "You might be helping someone unload the trailer, and you may not know that they’re the president of a bank or a lawyer. But we all come together to make this stock show happen.” This collective effort truly encapsulates what makes the FWSSR an intrinsic part of Fort Worth culture.

An Array of Experiences for All Ages

The FWSSR isn’t just about livestock or rodeo; it’s a multifaceted festival experiencing classic Texas fare. From petting zoos to rides on the carnival midway and culinary delights from Pulido’s Rodeo Cantina, the festival ensures that attendees of all ages have plenty to engage in. Offering a spot for everyone—from gourmet dining at high-end restaurant Reata to casual bites at the numerous food stalls—there’s something for everyone’s taste buds.

Moreover, families can enjoy educational activities such as 4-H and FFA competitions, which promote youthful learning and experience in agriculture, providing kids opportunities to learn and earn.

Your Guide to This Year’s Stock Show

Tickets to the FWSSR can be easily purchased online or at the venue, with general admissions available at $15 for adults and $8 for children ages 6 to 16. Many areas offer free admission to those with memberships to local museums. With more than 25 events scheduled, there’s no shortage of entertainment—from rodeos to parades and everything in between.

As the Fort Worth community gears up to welcome visitors from near and far, the spirit of the FWSSR remains unwavering, celebrating the traditions that define Texas’s Western heritage while embracing the future.

Join the fun at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo and part of a renowned legacy that marks the beginning of a new year in Texas! For more information, visit FWSSR.COM.